Olivier Verschatse obtained his PhD

The title of his PhD is "Optimization of Microscale Testing and Observation Techniques for Understanding the Behavior of Thermoset Composites".

Over the last decades the use of composites has greatly increased. These highly promising materials have a lightweight nature and superior mechanical properties, making them suitable for various load carrying applications in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and airplanes. However, the full potential of composites is hindered by a limited understanding of their behavior at the microscale level! During my PhD I optimized several microscale production techniques in order to study composite materials at the microscale level. By combining microscale testing of these samples with in situ observations of the deformation behavior I was able to study and quantify their microscale behavior. I would like to explain the results and insights obtained during my research to you during my public PhD defense.

Promotors:

• Prof. Lode Daelemans
• Prof. Karen De Clerck

Members of the examination board:

• Prof. Prof. Joris Degroote (chair)
• Prof. Véronique Michaud (EPFL)
• Prof. Johan P.M. Hoefnagels (TU/e)
• Prof. Jan Van Den Bulcke
• Prof. Prof. Wim Van Paepegem